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Ford has announced that it is cutting the price of its Sync infotainment system by $100 and making it available as optional equipment on some base trim models for 2012.
Sync, the hands-free connectivity system which allows drivers to make phone calls and control digital music players using voice commands, will be available as a $295 option to all base trim models. The new pricing will first be available on the 2012 Ford Explorer and Edge.
In addition, the system will become a standard feature on mid-level trim levels where it had previously been optional. The changes will end up extending Sync's availability to all Ford models within the next three years.
Sync has been installed on about three million vehicles since its launch in 2007, according to a Ford press release. In addition, the company said the feature is an important purchase consideration for 50 percent of buyers.
Ford has been working to evolve Sync's capabilities since its launch. The system has gone from understanding about 100 voice commands to some 10,000 through developments including MyFord Touch, which eliminates many hard key controls in favor of touch screens and voice commands. Recently, it was revealed that Ford has partnered with voice-recognition software company Nuance Communications to make Sync more user-friendly.
While Sync can be a real convenience on the road, and has the potential to reduce distraction by enabling drivers to keep their eyes on the road rather than fiddle with controls, Consumer Reports has found the added complexity of MyFord Touch can be frustrating, and lead to greater distraction.
Related:
Buyers unhappy with MyFord Touch
MyFord/MyLincoln Touch: An update (literally) SYNC
MyFord/MyLincoln Touch: A touch of intuition, or insanity?
—Evan MacDonald
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